- CRUISING FAQ's -

Cruising has never been more popular or affordable. If you are a first-time cruiser, be sure to contact one of our cruise specialists to help plan a cruise that is right for you. Take advantage of our experience.

Are cruises expensive?

Will I get seasick?

Won't I get bored?

Will I feel claustrophobic?

Are there different classes of service?

What is there to do while in port?

Are families with kids welcome?

What kind of nightlife is available?

What should I pack?

Are tuxedos & gowns required?

Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?

What is the standard for tipping?


Are cruises expensive?
Compare a one week cruise against a week at a resort. On a cruise vacation, your meals, accommodations, entertainment, and most activities are included in the fare. It's easy to stick to your budget. Plus, on a cruise you get to visit many different ports of call, instead of sticking to just one resort.

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Will I get seasick?
Today's cruise ships are engineered with state-of-the-art stabilizers that greatly reduce ship motion. If seasickness is a concern, choose a cabin towards the center of the ship where ship movement is less pronounced. At our GEO Everything For Travel store, we also carry Motion-Less Bands which control nausea due to seasickness.

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Won't I get bored?
There are so many activities available on a cruise, that it's hard to get bored. You can try ice skating, rock climbing, practice your golf swing, shoot a few hoops, go to the casino, see a Broadway-style show, do some shopping, work out at the gym, relax at the spa, take a dip in the pool, log onto the Internet. All without ever leaving the ship! 

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Will I feel claustrophobic?
If you need more room, choose a cabin with a balcony or upgrade to a mini-suite or suite. You may also want to cruise on one of the larger ships such as the Grand Princess or Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas - the two largest cruise ships ever built. Or, you might want to consider a shorter cruise for your first time such as a three or a four day Caribbean cruise. 

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Are there different classes of service?
Every guest can enjoy the use of any of the ship's facilities. The price and the category of staterooms are based primarily on size and location. Whatever category you book, you'll enjoy the same level of service as everyone else.

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What is there to do while in port?
So much, you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your own. Or take a guided tour. You can search ancient ruins or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, bicycle down the side of a 10,000 foot volcano, or ride a horse across miles of beaches. Climb a waterfall or a pyramid. See the birthplace of civilization or listen to steel drum bands. Follow the footsteps of history or the wake of a water-skiing boat. Eat native foods. Learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim on some of the world's best beaches. Catch a record-size marlin. Sail, snorkel, or go scuba diving. Go to a nightclub or a glittering casino. Take a cable car to the top of a mountain. Explore dark catacombs. In short, a cruise is the easiest way to see new places and do all of the things you dream about. 

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Do cruise lines welcome families with kids?
Families with children book 25% of all cruise vacations. Most cruise lines offer special programs, facilities, and activities based on age. Children and teens not only get to meet kids their own age, but often travel at a substantially-reduced rate. Many cruise lines have extensive programs and special activities for every age group, from toddler to teen. This gives youngsters a chance to experience the cruise with kids their own age while mom and dad enjoy some adults-only time together. Your UNIGLOBE Geo Travel Cruise consultant can recommend the ideal family vacation.

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What kind of nightlife is available?
At night, life aboard a cruise ship really turns on. There's dancing, live entertainment, discos and lounges, feature films, and parties with all your new friends. Most ships even have casinos. And the night can go on as long as you want. Even until the spectacle of sunrise at sea.

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What should I pack?
Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or on shore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. Much like on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. At the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, cocktail dress, a dinner jacket, or a gown.

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Are tuxedos and gowns required?
On some cruises, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun. But you don't need to rent a tuxedo just for the trip. A dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions.

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Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?
Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms. Check with us to be sure.

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What is the standard for tipping?
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. Most cruise lines include a tipping guideline in your stateroom. A general standard is to plan for about $2.50 to $3.00 per person, per day for your room steward and dining room waiter and about half that amount for your busboy. Some cruise lines include tipping in the price. Other ship personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion.

If you have further questions, please contact our office and speak to one of our cruise specialists.